Security is often an optional component of a computer implementation. Though we've made good strides in the implementation of default security, it's still not enough. To secure systems from desktops to servers, someone has to decide on what steps to take and make sure they are taken.

Unfortunately, even a sound security policy backed by management is not always applied consistently and regularly....

By submitting my Email address I confirm that I have read and accepted the Terms of Use and Declaration of Consent.

By submitting your personal information, you agree to receive emails regarding relevant products and special offers from TechTarget and its partners. You also agree that your personal information may be transferred and processed in the United States, and that you have read and agree to the Terms of Use and the Privacy Policy.

Even worse, it can be undone by a clueless user with administrative privileges, or by administrators who know better but "temporarily" change things during troubleshooting or forget some detail of a specific configuration.

This predicament is resolvable. A modern Windows computer can be configured to automatically apply and even reapply security settings. Some of these are aptly named "Security Options." Today it's time to get the big picture -- the details and how-to information will follow in additional checklists.

To get you started, the following mini-checklists will help you take the "optional" out of security for different Windows assets.

Roberta Bragg is author of "Hardening Windows systems" and a SearchWindowsSecurity.com resident expert. She is an MCSE, CISSP and Microsoft MVP, and a well-known information systems security consultant, columnist and speaker.

0 comments

E-Mail

Username / Password

Password

By submitting you agree to receive email from TechTarget and its partners. If you reside outside of the United States, you consent to having your personal data transferred to and processed in the United States. Privacy